From Manchester: Lake District Bus Tour & Windermere Cruise

Nestled in the heart of Northwest England, the Lake District beckons travelers with its captivating natural beauty and rich literary heritage. Set out on a comprehensive bus tour from Manchester, where you’ll cruise the tranquil waters of Lake Windermere, explore charming villages, and uncover the daily lives and creative processes of renowned poets. From Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage to the stunning landscapes that inspired literary greats, this 11-hour excursion promises a well-rounded introduction to the region’s most enchanting sights and cultural treasures. Prepare to learn about the breathtaking scenery that has captivated visitors for centuries – there’s more to discover than meets the eye.

This experience made our list of the 7 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Manchester.

Key Points

• A full-day excursion from Manchester to explore the scenic Lake District, including a boat cruise on the tranquil waters of Lake Windermere.
• Visits to the charming villages of Bowness and Hawkshead, known for their historic architecture and literary connections.
• A tour of Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage in Grasmere, providing insights into the poet’s life and creative process.
• Opportunities to discover the breathtaking landscapes of Coniston Water and Ullswater, popular settings for classic literature.
• Comprehensive transportation and a knowledgeable guide included in the tour, which lasts approximately 11 hours and costs $95.48 per person.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Scenic Boat Cruise on Lake Windermere

The scenic boat cruise on Lake Windermere is a highlight of the tour, allowing visitors to take in the stunning natural beauty of the lake and its surrounding landscapes.

Gliding along the tranquil waters, passengers will be treated to breathtaking views of the rolling hills, rugged fells, and picturesque villages that dot the shoreline.

The cruise offers a peaceful and relaxing way to experience the heart of the Lake District, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

With the opportunity to spot local wildlife and learn about the area’s rich history and culture, the Windermere cruise is an essential part of any visit to this picturesque region.

Charming Villages of Bowness and Hawkshead

After the relaxing cruise on Lake Windermere, the tour moves on to explore the charming villages of Bowness and Hawkshead, each offering a unique glimpse into the Lake District’s captivating history and culture.

In Bowness, visitors can stroll through the quaint streets, browse local shops and galleries, and admire the picturesque views of the lake. The village is also home to the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, where guests can enjoy the beloved author’s enchanting stories.

Further north, the village of Hawkshead boasts a well-preserved historic center, with narrow cobbled lanes and traditional whitewashed cottages. Here, travelers can visit Wordsworth’s Grammar School, where the famous poet studied as a child, and soak up the tranquil atmosphere that has inspired generations of artists and writers.

Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage in Grasmere

Next, the tour typically visits Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage in the picturesque village of Grasmere. This quaint historic home was the beloved poet’s residence for much of his life and serves as a captivating window into his creative process and the inspirations that shaped his iconic works.

Visitors can explore the cottage’s well-preserved rooms and gardens, where Wordsworth often walked and found solace. The tour guide will share fascinating insights about Wordsworth’s daily life and routines, as well as anecdotes that shed light on his poetic genius.

Exploring Dove Cottage offers a unique opportunity to connect with the literary legend and better understand the influential role of the Lake District’s stunning natural landscapes in his acclaimed poetry.

Coniston Water and Ullswater Lake

Nestled amidst the magnificent fells and valleys of the Lake District, Coniston Water and Ullswater Lake captivate visitors with their serene beauty and rich history.

Coniston Water, a sprawling lake surrounded by the dramatic Coniston Fells, was the setting for the beloved children’s book, ‘Swallows and Amazons.’

Nearby, Ullswater, often described as the most beautiful of the lakes, offers:

• Breathtaking vistas of the Helvellyn mountain range.
• Opportunities to spot local wildlife, like red deer and ospreys.
• Charming villages like Glenridding, where visitors can embark on scenic lake cruises.
• A chance to follow in the footsteps of literary greats like Wordsworth, who found inspiration in the lake’s tranquil waters.

Whether you seek adventure or peaceful contemplation, these two lakes promise an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Lake District.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Tour Duration and Inclusions

The Lake District Tour & Windermere Cruise is an 11-hour excursion that takes visitors on a scenic boat ride across Lake Windermere and through charming villages like Bowness, Hawkshead, and Grasmere.

Along the way, guests will have the chance to see Coniston Water and Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage.

The tour includes a knowledgeable guide and transportation by bus, ensuring a seamless and informative experience.

While the price of $95.48 per person may seem steep, the tour’s inclusions make it a great value for those eager to explore the stunning Lake District region.

With limited availability, it’s wise to book this tour in advance to secure a spot on this likely sell-out experience.

Meeting Point and Directions

The tour departs from the bus Parking Bays located on Store Street in Manchester.

Travelers coming from Manchester Piccadilly Train Station can take the main exit, follow the pedestrian walkway, cross over at the lights, turn left, and walk until they see the white Rabbies mini bus.

The meeting point is conveniently located and easy to find.

Once there, you can look forward to:

1. A scenic boat cruise on the stunning Lake Windermere.
2. Visits to the charming villages of Bowness, Hawkshead, and Grasmere.
3. A photo stop at the picturesque Ullswater Lake.
4. Seeing Wordsworth’s famous Dove Cottage in Grasmere.

Tour Highlights and Itinerary

Travelers on the Lake District Bus Tour & Windermere Cruise can expect a captivating journey through the region’s natural splendor. The tour highlights include a scenic boat cruise on the picturesque Lake Windermere, offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding fells and woodlands.

Tour Highlights
Scenic boat cruise on Lake Windermere	Visit to charming villages of Bowness, Hawkshead, and Grasmere
See Coniston Water and Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage	Photo stop at Ullswater Lake

The tour also includes visits to the charming villages of Bowness, Hawkshead, and Grasmere, where visitors can explore local shops, cafes, and historic sites. Plus, the tour stops at Coniston Water and the famous Dove Cottage, the former home of renowned poet William Wordsworth.

Booking and Pricing Information

Booking the Lake District Bus Tour & Windermere Cruise costs $95.48 per person, and the tour typically sells out quickly due to its popularity.

The 11-hour tour includes a scenic boat cruise on Lake Windermere and visits to charming villages like Bowness, Hawkshead, and Grasmere. Highlights also include seeing Coniston Water and Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage, as well as a photo stop at Ullswater Lake.

The tour package covers transportation by bus and the Windermere cruise, but food, drinks, and tips aren’t included. To secure your spot, it’s best to book in advance.

The meeting point is at the bus Parking Bays on Store Street in Manchester, just a short walk from Piccadilly Train Station.

Recap

This comprehensive bus tour from Manchester offers a captivating exploration of the Lake District’s natural beauty and literary heritage.

Travelers can cruise the tranquil waters of Lake Windermere, discover charming towns, visit Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage, and enjoy the stunning landscapes that inspired literary greats.

With a well-rounded itinerary and exceptional sights, this 11-hour excursion provides an enriching introduction to the region’s treasures.

You can check if your dates are available here: